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Psychology

Psychology is an exciting subject which examines how the human mind works and what motivates human behaviour. As Psychology stems from philosophy, there are many chances to discuss the big questions; such as what makes us human? Do we have free will? It is also a scientific discipline and as such focuses on key research findings and techniques.

Key Stage 4

Psychology is an exciting subject which examines how the human mind works and what motivates human behaviour. As Psychology stems from philosophy, there are many chances to discuss the big questions; such as what makes us human? Do we have free will? It is also a scientific discipline and as such focuses on key research findings and techniques.

COURSE CONTENT

For this subject, students have the opportunity to study the following areas:-

Year 9: Social Influence – How do others affect you?
Research Methods – How do you carry out psychological research?
Memory – How does your memory work?

Year 10: Psychological Problems – How could psychological problems affect you?
Developmental – How did we develop?
Criminal Psychology – Why do people become criminals?

Year 11: The Brain and Neuropsychology – How does your brain affect you?
Sleep and Dreaming – Why do you need to sleep and dream?

ASSESSMENT

Psychology GCSE is assessed through 2 written examinations at the end of year 11
Exams: 100% of final mark
• Paper 1: Developmental, Memory, Psychological Problems, Brain and Neuropsychology and Social Influence (55% of GCSE and 1 hour 45 minutes exam)
• Paper 2: Research Methods, Criminal Psychology and Sleep and Dreaming (45% of GCSE and 1 hour 25 minutes exam)
The exams consist of multiple-choice, short answer and extended writing questions

Key Stage 5

A Level Psychology

The course is assessed through:

Terminal exams at the end of Year 13

There are three two hour exams

Each exam consists of short note and essay questions

Topics studied include:

Introducing Psychology

Social, Cognitive and Individual Psychology

Biopsychology, Forensic Psychology and Schizophrenia

Approaches, Debates and Methods in Psychology

Students are expected to explore to develop analytical and evaluative skills. These are then used to construct complex arguments.

Career Pathways

Psychology is a rapidly growing discipline and as such the range of high paying career opportunities have expanded in recent years.